“We are honored to have been selected for this position. We know we are stronger together. We look forward to coalescing environmental justice organizations around Connecticut to take advantage of this opportunity to advance justice for our communities.”
Connecticut Roundtable On Climate And Jobs EPA Thriving Communities Anchor Organization Press Release
Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs (CRCJ) Selected as Federal Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program Anchor Organization
Date: November, 11,2024
PR Contact: Sydney Barnwell; [email protected].
The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs (CRCJ) has been selected as the Connecticut Anchor Organization for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. CRCJ builds alliances among diverse constituencies to combat climate change, create jobs, and promote racial, economic, and environmental justice.
In light of the recent election results, CRCJ remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing climate justice, equity, and community resilience here in Connecticut and the region. We recognize that political landscapes may shift, but our dedication to a sustainable future—one that centers on environmental, racial, and economic justice—will never waver. Our designation as an anchor organization only strengthens our resolve to ensure that the most vulnerable and historically marginalized communities have a voice in shaping climate solutions. CRCJ wants to assure our partners and allies in the Environmental Justice community that there is still funding and support for projects and we are committed to helping organizations, tribal governments, and others to find technical support and funding to further their efforts.
Under the EJ Thriving Communities Program, Connecticut grant seekers will be eligible for subgrants from the EPA Region 1 grantmaker, Health Resources in Action (HRiA). CRCJ’s role will be to recruit diverse applicants, particularly community-based nonprofits that do not have experience applying for federal funding, and to connect community-based organizations to technical assistance opportunities. CRCJ will also maintain a database of environmental justice-related grant opportunities from other federal, state, and private sources. We encourage organizations to begin planning their projects to take full advantage of these upcoming funding opportunities and join us in advancing environmental justice for all Connecticut communities.
QUOTES
“We are honored to have been selected for this position. We know we are stronger together. We look forward to coalescing environmental justice organizations around Connecticut to take advantage of this opportunity to advance justice for our communities.” – Aziz Dehkan, Executive Director, Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs
“CRCJ’s unique focus on both climate resiliency and good jobs make them an ideal trustee of these funds provided by the federal Inflation Reduction Act, the largest ever investment in climate in American history. Their work will ensure this investment both uplifts our communities and improves our environmental health and resiliency.” – Congressman Joe Courtney (D-2nd District)
“I am thrilled that the CRCJ has been selected to continue their critical work combating climate change under this EPA program. CRCJ has the resources and connections to ensure that federal funding effectively addresses the disproportionate impact of pollution on our underserved neighborhoods. I will continue working with CRCJ by fighting to deliver investments for environmental justice in Connecticut.” – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal
“Our state can’t properly address the needs of the future without collaboration and centering the conversation around organizations with the ability to succeed. I’m proud to find the Roundtable on Climate and Jobs will have the opportunity to serve as that centerpiece. Our communities will be all the stronger for their leadership.” – Senator Saud Anwar (D-Senate District 3)
“I can think of no better quarterback for this team,” said State Rep. Christine Palm, who serves as Vice Chair of the Legislature’s Environment Committee. “The Roundtable thoroughly understands the interplay among the needs of Environmental Justice communities, working families, and all those advocating for our natural resources. Additionally, as the EPA’s lead “anchor” here in Connecticut, the Roundtable will execute its responsibilities with equity and efficiency. Given the uncertain future of federal regulations under the Trump Administration, the Roundtable’s nimbleness will prove to be a great asset to Connecticut’s community groups working through the labyrinth of federal applications and procedures.” – Representative Christine Palm (D-Haddam, Deep River, Chester) Environment Committee Vice Chair
“In order to advance environmental justice in our state, we must build meaningful alliances among diverse groups. By uniting these voices from different communities, we will create a powerful network that can drive systemic change and ensure green initiatives can reach anyone,” said House Environmental Committee Chair Rep. Joseph Gresko (D – Stratford). “The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs has been a great partner for advancing environmental justice, and I look forward to working with them.”
“I am resolute in my commitment to climate justice, equity, and resilience and that dedication doesn’t shift in this new landscape. We are still and even more so now, impacting truly existential environmental issues as we expand our workforce and strengthen our nonprofit partners in this work,” said State Rep. Anne Hughes (D-Easton, Redding, Weston). “The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs has been an unwavering partner in the effort to ensure that historically marginalized communities have a seat at the table and at the helm of this economy as we work toward addressing the climate crisis at our doorstep, creating green jobs, and promoting racial, economic, and environmental justice.”
“As someone who represents part of an Environmental Justice Community, climate justice, equity, and resilience are at the forefront for me,” said State Rep. Gary Turco (D-Newington, New Britain). “The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs’ advocacy and partnership is critical to the effort that aims to strengthen local organizations and advance environmental justice in communities across our state.”
“It is vital to build inclusive relationships to address environmental justice in Connecticut. This new partnership will ensure that communities affected by systemic barriers will have a platform to share their perspectives on climate resiliency, environmental equity, green infrastructure, and technology,” said Rep. James Sánchez (D – Hartford, West Hartford). “The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs has been a model of success for promoting environmental justice, and I’m eager to continue our work together.”
“Congratulations to the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs for being selected for the Connecticut Anchor Organization for the U.S. EPA’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. With this designation, I hope CRCJ will be able to recruit good, diverse, community-based nonprofits from across Connecticut to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized communities have a voice in shaping our climate solutions.” – Rep. Michelle Cook (D – Torrington)
“I am very excited that the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs will be at the forefront of environmental justice across the state,” said Rep. David Michel (D – Stamford). “Together we will ensure that marginalized communities are empowered to make a difference and hold a stake in the transformation of our environmental progress.”
“Environmental issues disproportionately impact our most vulnerable populations,” said State Representative Moira Rader (D-Guilford and Branford). “CRCJ is a critical partner in advancing environmental justice while creating economic opportunities for our communities. This program will significantly amplify the ability to support grassroots environmental justice initiatives in the state and help empower these valued communities to address environmental challenges while building economic resilience.”
“I am sure CRCJ will do great work within the US Environmental Protection Agency to advance climate mitigation efforts,” said Rep. Manny Sanchez (D-New Britain). “Climate justice is an important priority for our state and nation, and we must continue to move the needle forward if we are to address the issues raised by so many scientists studying our negative impact on the environment.”
“No matter who is in charge, the threat of the climate crisis continues to grow, and we need groups like the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs to promote this essential sector of green energy and all the jobs it offers for CT workers. The Roundtable is finding the right solutions and connecting organizations across the state with resources and opportunities,” State Rep. Jennifer Leeper (D-Fairfield, Southport) said. “Only by working together with a diverse coalition can we combat climate change and advocate for economic and environmental justice, all while creating sustainable jobs for the next generation. Congratulations to the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs on this recognition – I am excited to work with you and your coalition to build a better and more sustainable future across our state.”
“I am happy to hear the good news about CRCJ being selected to serve in a new role within the US Environmental Protection Agency,” said Rep. Hilda E. Santiago (D-Meriden). “Their work and commitment to advancing climate justice initiatives in our state are crucial, as we continue pushing for meaningful action to build a future that is healthy and fair for all our residents. I am looking forward to hearing more as their partnership develops.”
“Environmental justice is of the utmost importance. If unchecked, the ramifications will be devastating for all but will impact individual communities in different ways. I am thrilled that the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Justice has been tasked with connecting a diverse array of environmental organizations with federal funding opportunities. To combat the impact of climate change, we must have a united front that focuses on equity, and I am confident in the CRCJ’s ability to achieve that goal,” – Rep. Jane Garibay (D-Windsor, Windsor Locks)
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